McGeechan leaves Wasps job

Ian McGeechan has stepped down as director of rugby at Wasps.

McGeechan, head coach for the Lions' tour to South Africa which begins later this month, spent four seasons at the club and could yet be handed a consultancy role.

The 62-year-old said: "We are currently discussing the format of my involvement next year to ensure a successful transition takes place."

McGeechan masterminded success in the Guinness Premiership, Heineken Cup and Powergen Cup after replacing Warren Gatland in 2005 but Wasps have endured lean pickings this year.

For the first time in seven seasons they failed to lift any silverware and finished a disappointing seventh in the Premiership table.

In a further blow to the most prolific English club of recent times, they can only qualify for the Heineken Cup if Northampton lose to Bourgoin in the Challenge Cup final next Friday.

McGeechan said: "Following discussions with Wasps I will step down from my position as director of rugby. This decision has been part of an ongoing dialogue with the club, which began with executive chairman Mark Rigby in January.

"I informed him that one of the options I was considering was to finish as director of rugby at the end of the season. I did this because I believe succession, planning and stability are very important and have been a key component in Wasps' success.

"I would like to wish my successor, as well as everyone else at the club, all the very best for the future. I'm proud of the club's achievements in winning three major trophies during my time."

The Scot has been on a sabbatical this season due to his commitments with the Lions, who have been paying his salary. Shaun Edwards, the Lions' defence chief, is expected to remain in his position as head coach with Waikato boss Tony Hanks reported to be McGeechan's successor at Adams Park.